How the Singapore government erases LGBTQ+ representation – Sources
| Updated on- IMDA uses legally-enforceable guidelines to classify content on a scale of G to R21.
- By refusing to classify content (pages 2 and 17), IMDA effectively bans them.
- IMDA defines “alternative sexualities” (page 7) as anything that’s not heterosexual, and then defines “mature themes” (page 8) as things that contain “alternative sexualities” and gender identities.
- Shows with "mature themes" will get ratings of at least NC16 (page 10).
- Free-to-air TV channels can only broadcast up to PG13 (page 2), which effectively bans LGBTQ+ representation since shows with "mature themes" get at least NC16.
- Shows that contain homosexual themes as a sub-plot will get M18 (page10) and those that portray gay marriage or parenting as a main theme will get R21 (page 10).
- Gay kissing gets M18 (page 12) while straight kissing gets PG (page 12). Gay sex scenes get at least R21 (page 12), whereas straight sex scenes get PG13 or NC16 (page 12). Content that “promotes homosexuality” (page 17) – whatever that means – will be considered for a complete ban.
